In the world of finance, the term "cash in advance" refers to a payment method where the buyer must make full payment before the goods or services are delivered. This method is commonly used in international trade, where the seller requires payment in advance to mitigate the risk of non-payment. Cash in advance offers a level of security for sellers, but can also be a burden for buyers who must come up with the funds before receiving the goods or services. It is important to carefully consider the implications of this payment method and its impact on cash flow when conducting business transactions.